EXFO announced that Alker Fibre Optic Specialists is adding EXFO test & measurement solutions to its UK manufacturing lab for advanced diagnostics and quality assurance. Alker is a preferred supplier to companies across all sectors around the world, including such entities as the UK Ministry of Defence, Rolls Royce, and universities across Europe. Alker is enhancing its test capabilities as the company continues to provide solutions supporting even the most rigorous fiber optic deployments, from outer space to underwater and deep underground.

Alker has chosen the following EXFO solutions: Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs): EXFO's acclaimed OTDRs provide highly accurate measurements to easily characterize and validate fiber links. These intelligent and automated test tools enable faster and simplified one-step fiber testing, providing consistent test results and preventing the reporting of false-positive results. MaxTester 720C: provides first-time-right fiber characterization due to its short 'dead zones' and effective dynamic range.

This compact quad unit is optimized for singlemode and multimode testing in many environments. Fiber inspection scopes: EXFO's fully automated fiber inspection scopes provide fast and consistent pass/fail assessments to avoid dirty or damaged connectors, one of the most common causes of optical network problems. FIP-500 fiber inspection scope –self-contained unit that provides the fastest inspection in the industry with the most reliable results. Its quick connect mechanism allows swapping from single-fiber to multi-fiber and now to duplex connectors in a matter of seconds.

FIP-430B fiber inspection scope – fully-automated inspection scope featuring USB wired connectivity to PC and EXFO platforms. Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS): EXFO's MaxTester 945 Fiber Certifier OLTS is a tablet-inspired test solution that certifies fiber cabling. The unit has an intuitive interface and provides icon-based functions and instant boot-up, as well as onboard assistance and onboard professional reporting. Because these test solutions are portable, Alker can use the equipment both in their manufacturing lab and during customer site visits.